How to Make a Bowling Ball Curve
Mastering the Hook: Curving Your Bowling Ball for More Strikes
Are you struggling to add that sweet hook to your bowling ball? Curving your ball is key to knocking down more pins and improving your game. In this guide, we’ll share pro tips on how to make a bowling ball curve using the proper techniques.
Why Curve the Ball?
A straight ball lacks power and often results in splits or open frames. But by putting a hook on your shot, you create a more powerful angle into the pocket for higher scores. A curved bowling ball has increased entry angle and hitting power, giving you a better chance at strikes.
Ball Basics
Before we dive into curving techniques, it’s important to understand some bowling ball basics:
Weight: Heavier balls (16+ lbs for men, 14+ lbs for women) are easier to hook due to their greater momentum. But don’t sacrifice comfort for weight.
Coverstock: Reactive resin coverstocks enhance hooking action while plastic coverstocks limit hook potential.
Core: Symmetric cores provide more length and backend hook while asymmetric cores flare more in the midlane.
With the right arsenal of bowling balls designed for hooking, you’re ready to start curving.
Official Resources:
Develop Your Release
Creating a curve all starts with your release. Here are some tips from the pros:
Wrist Position
Hand Position
Swing Path
Apply Your Revolutions
Once your release is generating a good rev rate, it’s time to dial in your curve:
Oil Pattern Adjustment
Axis Tilt
coverstock Guidance
Speed Control
Check out these official resources for more advanced tips:
Don’t Neglect the Fundamentals
While curving the ball increases strike potential, don’t lose focus on the sport’s core fundamentals:
Consistent Timing
Balanced Finish
Target Visualization
By combining a hooking delivery with stellar fundamentals, you’ll elevate your entire bowling game. Get tips straight from the pros:
Final Curve Tips
As you learn to curve your bowling ball, keep these last tips in mind:
With commitment to proper technique and fundamentals, you’ll be consistently curving strikes in no time! The path to bowling excellence lies in mastering the hook.
